Koko Maxwella 
Ex-Aviation Minister, Stella Oduah
ABUJA, Nigeria – Former Minister of Aviation, Senator Stella Oduah, has been arraigned by the Federal Government over an alleged ₦5bn fraud linked to her tenure in 2014.
Oduah, who served under former President Goodluck Jonathan, appeared before the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama on Wednesday to face five counts, including conspiracy and obtaining money by false pretences. The charges were filed by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation.
Prosecutors allege that Oduah fraudulently obtained ₦2.4bn from the Ministry of Aviation through Broad Waters Resources, claiming the money was intended for technical supervision. She was arraigned alongside co-defendant Gloria Odita, who also pleaded not guilty.
Oduah was represented by Senior Advocate Onyechi Ikpeazu, while Odita was represented by Wale Balogun, also a Senior Advocate.
Justice Hamza Muazu granted Oduah bail on self-recognisance but directed her to deposit her passport with the Court and obtain permission before leaving the country.
This is the second attempt by the government to prosecute the former minister. An earlier case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission at the Federal High Court, Abuja, was withdrawn.
The trial is expected to continue as the government pursues allegations of large-scale financial misconduct during her time in office.
About the Author
Oluwatobi Adu 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
